President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to delivering significant improvements in Nigeria’s infrastructure, food and energy security, education, and long-term economic stability. Speaking during a meeting with the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, led by former Senate President Ken Nnamani, the President emphasized his dedication to national service over personal gain.
“I didn’t come to look for money and exploit the situation; I came to work. I asked for the votes, and Nigerians gave them to me,” President Tinubu stated, addressing the forum with warmth after a session of light-hearted exchanges with his former parliamentary colleagues.
The meeting, attended by 16 former presiding officers, including past Senate Presidents, House Speakers, and their deputies, served as a platform for discussing the country’s pressing challenges. Tinubu expressed gratitude for their support, irrespective of political differences, and called for continued unity in pursuit of Nigeria’s development goals.
Reflecting on the complex nature of governance, legislative activities, and the nation-building process, the President expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future. “Regardless of party differences of the past and the difficulties of the present, you still believe in me and what we all plan for this country,” he remarked. He emphasized that progress can be achieved through collaboration and inclusiveness, drawing on examples from developed nations.
Addressing Nigeria’s current economic and social hardships, Tinubu urged reflection on past missteps, particularly in the management of crude oil resources and the neglect of essential sectors such as education. He lamented the poor condition of schools and stressed the need to create environments conducive to learning.
“We forgot to educate our children. Go round and look at the dilapidated schools. The education environment must be decent enough for pupils to want to learn. We can complain from now till eternity that school enrolment is low. But did we do anything to encourage the enrolment process? We must ask ourselves because it is a matter of conscience,” Tinubu stated.
The President outlined his administration’s commitment to tackling these issues, focusing on infrastructure development, ensuring adherence to financial regulations, and exploring alternative energy sources to enhance energy security.
Senator Nnamani, speaking on behalf of the Forum, expressed strong support for President Tinubu’s leadership and his efforts to address Nigeria’s challenges, including insecurity, economic downturns, and infrastructural decay. Nnamani praised the President’s courage in tackling local government autonomy, a move that has garnered widespread admiration.
“As difficult as these problems are, we believe that with your experience, you can face the difficulties and surmount them,” Nnamani said. He reiterated the Forum’s resolve to unite across political divides and offer their expertise in nation-building, pledging support for Tinubu’s administration.
The former Senate President also acknowledged the President’s confidence in appointing several of the Forum’s members to key national roles, underscoring their importance in shaping the country’s future.
The meeting highlighted Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to build a united front with experienced leaders to confront Nigeria’s critical challenges, with a shared commitment to creating a prosperous and secure nation for all.
